174 - Innovative hardware, software, and citizen science techniques to combat Anopheles stephensi and the global spread of malaria

Malaria has plagued humankind for millennia, and remains an intractable challenge. In 2023, local transmission occurred in the U.S. for the first time in 20 years (Florida, Texas, and Maryland). Additionally, with rising temperatures and increased human mobility, malaria vectors are spreading into new areas. This includes the recent introduction of the Asian species, Anopheles stephensi, in at least eight nations throughout Africa. An. stephensi is a malaria vector that is highly competent, resistant to insecticides, breeds in artificial containers, and has already led to unprecedented urban epidemics in Africa. To combat the threat of An. stephensi and other vectors, we are taking a three-pronged approach, combining innovative hardware, software, and citizen science techniques. First, we have designed a novel and low-cost smart trap device that consists of 3D-printed components, a WiFi-enabled microcomputer, multi-modal sensors, and UV imaging useful for mark-release-recapture studies. We are also experimenting with various baits for luring An. stephensi. Second, we have developed artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to identify the species and gonotrophic stages of trapped mosquitoes using images, operating locally and in the cloud. These AI tools analyze adult and larval mosquitoes, and are available at www.mosquitoID.org (beta versions, primarily targeting An. stephensi). Finally, we have built a GIS mapping platform, the Global Mosquito Observations Dashboard (GMOD), which is freely accessible at  www.mosquitodashboard.org. This dashboard standardizes and integrates data streams from three established mobile apps—Mosquito Alert, iNaturalist, and GLOBE Observer (Mosquito Habitat Mapper and Land Cover tools)—and enables users to visualize and download data in multiple formats. To encourage contributions to such mosquito surveillance, we have also launched international media and citizen science campaigns (e.g., www.mosquitoesInAfrica.org). Ultimately, our goal is to develop and deploy tools to enhance the surveillance and control of vectors such as An. stephensi on a global scale. [publication: https://doi.org/10.5334/cstp.616]